3 Common Health Problems You May Not Know You Have

We all want to feel as healthy as possible. But we cannot fix a health problem we do not know exists. Many people walk around feeling their health is not quite right, but they are unsure of the problem. Below are three medical conditions that are common however many people do not even know they have it.

Anemia is a disorder of the blood. It happens when there is not enough red blood cells in the body. This can effect a persons health. Hemoglobin carries oxygen to the organs in the body. Red blood cells contain hemoglobin. When our bodies are low on this it can cause several symptoms. Because not enough oxygen gets where it is needed, a person with anemia may feel fatigued or have shortness of breath. A blood test can help your physician determine if you have anemia.

Some causes of this health condition are blood loss. A condition that may cause internal bleeding such as a bleeding ulcer can lead to anemia. A heavy menstrual flow on a regular basis can also cause enough blood loss for anemia to develop. Other causes include vitamin and iron deficiency.

Treatment depends on the underlying cause or health condition. For example, to regulate bleeding during a menstrual cycle birth control pills may be prescribed. Treatment of health problems that can cause internal bleeding, such as an ulcer is essential. Changes in diet or taking vitamins or iron supplements may be suggested.

Mitral Valve Prolapse is when the mitral valve of the heart is not working correctly. The heart is divided into four chambers. There are valves that help blood move throughout theses four chambers. The mitral valve regulates the flow of blood between the left atrium and the left ventricle by opening and closing. In mitral valve prolapse the valve does not close the way it should. The blood does not flow normally and may flow backwards into the atrium.

Many people with this common health condition do not experience any symptoms. Others may have some dizziness, fatigue or irregular heartbeats. Tests to confirm diagnosis include an electrocardiogram, a chest x-ray and an echo-cardiogram.